Trifecta (or Something) at the DBG

... Yes, we're back from Chicago but first, I really need to post about my spontaneous jaunt to the Desert Botanical Garden. 

It started out unlike any other day because, for starters, I got out of bed before 8:00.  And this was made even more amazing because it was a Monday and I hadn't really held back at the Sunday potluck.  So, I got up - early - and was at United Blood Services by 7:30 to donate a pint of my precious (A-) bodily fluid.  That's right - I've got rare blood ("Find the Hero in you!").  It's probably not as good as "V," but in demand nonetheless.

Now a pint shy, I decided it would be a good day to go try out the 55-250 zoom lens and tulip hood I got for the Canon so I could get better shots of the lizards that always scoot before I get a chance for that "up close" moment.  The DBG is a great place for this since I knew I could experiment on flowers and cacti if there weren't any cooperative herps.  (Plus there are lots of drinking fountains and snack bars.)

Well, SCORE!  I felt like a genius, because not only were the flowers beautiful, but the Spring Butterfly Exhibit was open, A Desert Illuminated (photography by John Schaefer) was on display, the Scottsdale Artists League's 16th Annual Spring Paint-out show and sale was up and running, and the Central Arizona Cactus and Succulent Society was holding its annual show and sale!  I was happier than a pig in shit and I got some decent lizard pics to boot!

Fruiting Barrel Cactus

Golden Barrel Cacti

Spiny Lizard

Agave

Ground Squirrel

Zebra Longwing

Spicebush Swallowtail

Some sort of succulent ;-D

Another succulent ;-D

Blooming Cactus

What's not to love about spring time in the desert?